Install Windows Apps on M1 MacBook with Parallels
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Why Choose the M1 MacBook?
- Concerns about Installing Windows Applications
- Using Parallels to Install Windows on the M1 MacBook
- Installing Windows for ARM on Parallels
- Steps to Install Parallels on the M1 MacBook
- Installing Updates and Enabling x64 Emulation
- Installing Windows Applications on the M1 MacBook
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Using Parallels to Install Windows on the M1 MacBook
The new M1 MacBook has been making waves in the tech community, and for good reason. The powerful new chip and sleek design make it a top choice for many users. However, one concern that some people have is how to install Windows applications on this machine. In this article, we will explore a solution that I use on a daily basis to access my favorite Windows application, Power BI.
Power BI is a data visualization software that requires a lot of resources from the computer. It is similar to a high-end gaming application in terms of resource usage. However, since I started using Power BI on my M1 MacBook, I haven't noticed any real issues. In fact, it has worked seamlessly and even more responsively than on my Dell laptop with a similar memory capacity.
To install Windows applications on the M1 MacBook, we will be using Parallels, a visualization software that allows us to run Windows on the Mac. Please note that both Parallels and Windows are still under development for the new ARM architecture of the M1 chip. This means there may be a few bugs along the way. Additionally, while both solutions are currently free, they may require a paid license in the future.
Now, let's dive into the step-by-step process of installing Windows applications on the M1 MacBook using Parallels.
Step 1: Downloading Windows for ARM
To start, you need to sign up for the Windows Insider program and create a login. This login will be needed later in the installation process. Once you have your login, download the Windows 10 client for ARM Insider Preview. It is recommended to save this file in a location that is easily accessible, as we will need to install it in the virtual machine.
Step 2: Downloading Parallels Desktop for the M1 MacBook
Next, sign into Parallels using your Google or Apple login. From there, you can download the Parallels Technical Preview. Keep the browser open, as you will need the activation key featured on the webpage.
Step 3: Installing Parallels and Creating the Windows Virtual Machine
Click on the Parallels file that you downloaded to start the installer. When prompted, drag in the Windows 10 file that you previously downloaded from the Windows website. Parallels will then set up your Windows instance, and you will need to enter your login information for Parallels using your Google or Apple ID. Enter the activation key from the webpage where you downloaded Parallels, and the setup configuration for your virtual machine will continue.
Step 4: Installing Updates and Enabling x64 Emulation
In this step, we need to install updates for Windows and enable x64 emulation to run 64-bit Windows applications. Go to the search bar at the bottom of the screen and type "insider." Click on "Diagnostics and Feedback" and turn on the optional diagnostics data. Then, click "Link Windows Insider Account" and log into your Windows Insider Program account. Once logged in, click "Beta Channel (Recommended)" and select "Dev Channel." Go back to the home button and click "Update & Security," then "Check for updates." Download and install any available updates. This may take some time. Once completed, the machine will reboot, and you may need to reboot Parallels one more time for it to work properly.
Step 5: Installing Windows Applications on the Virtual Machine
Due to the limitations of the Windows Arm 64 version, you cannot download applications via the Microsoft Store or through the browser within Windows. However, there is a workaround. Download the 64-bit version of your desired Windows application on your Mac's browser and save it. Then, within Parallels, you can access your Mac's file system and go through the installation process within the virtual machine.
And there you have it! Now, you have your favorite Windows-based application installed on your M1 MacBook. To access it, simply load up Parallels and launch your virtual machine instance. From there, you can launch your application as normal.
In conclusion, installing Windows applications on the M1 MacBook is possible with the help of Parallels. While there may be some bugs and limitations due to the new ARM architecture, the overall experience has been smooth and responsive for most users. With the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy the best of both worlds on your M1 MacBook.
FAQ:
Q: Is it possible to install Windows applications on the M1 MacBook? A: Yes, it is possible to install Windows applications on the M1 MacBook using Parallels.
Q: What is Parallels? A: Parallels is a visualization software that allows users to run Windows on Mac machines.
Q: Are Parallels and Windows for ARM free? A: Currently, both Parallels and Windows for ARM are free. However, it is anticipated that they will transition to paid versions in the future.
Q: Are there any limitations or bugs when using Parallels and Windows for ARM on the M1 MacBook? A: Yes, there may be some limitations and bugs, as both Parallels and Windows for ARM are still under development for the new ARM architecture. However, the overall experience has been smooth for most users.
Q: Can I download Windows applications via the Microsoft Store on the Windows for ARM version? A: No, due to limitations, downloading applications via the Microsoft Store or through the browser within Windows is not currently possible. However, you can download the 64-bit version of the desired application on your Mac and install it within the Parallels virtual machine.
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